Ottawa Gets USL Club

I suppose the dream of a MLS club in Ottawa is over, for now at least. Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG), along with their partner Ottawa Fury owner and CEO John Pugh, announced today they have applied for a United Soccer Leagues First Division (USL-1) franchise.

The team would play and be based at a proposed new stadium at Lansdowne Park.

“Our application for a USL franchise, at this point in time, ensures that soccer specific elements will be incorporated into the stadium design to optimize the experience for soccer fans and players,” said Jeff Hunt, an OSEG partner. “And I can tell you, the fan experience for USL-1 soccer is top-notch. The caliber of play, the quality of the stadia and the involvement of the players in community activities is second to none. It is a tremendous environment for soccer purists, casual fans and families seeking an affordable, fun outing.”

I’m curious to see how this new team fits into this on-going situation between the new owners of the USL and the current team owners. Its a sticky mess right now with that league but it does look good that they are adding teams for next year.

Ottawa will join the Tampa Bay Rowdies and FC New York as new clubs in the league.